Name and Location
Gautrain rolling stock procurement programme, South Africa.

Client
Gautrain Management Agency (GMA).

Project Description
The Bombela Concession Company (BCC), the operator of the Gautrain rapid rail link, has launched a request for qualification (RFQ) for the acquisition of 12 new trains of four cars each for the Gautrain.

The contract includes the design, manufacture, supply and maintenance of the new rolling stock, depot extensions to accommodate the new trains, signalling upgrades, as well as the construction of pocket tracks on the 82 km system for maintenance equipment and the parking of broken-down trains.

The new trains will not have to come from the same family, but will have to operate successfully under similar conditions.

Value
The price tag on the trains, the depots and track expansions is expected to be about R2.5-billion to R3-billion, although the weak rand could push prices higher.

The Gauteng government will pay for the rolling stock and has already secured a loan from the Development Bank of Southern Africa for the acquisition.

It is, however, amenable to alternative funding options as presented by the successful bidder.

Duration
The new rolling stock should enter operation in 2018.

Latest Developments
The RFQ was made available on January 11. The closing date for the RFQ submissions is March 7, 2016.

Key Contracts and Suppliers
None stated.

On Budget and on Time?
Too early to state.

Contact Details for Project Information
Enquiries regarding the RFQ should be directed to the BCC, email tenders@bombela.com.
GMA senior executive manager communication and marketing Dr Barbara Jensen, email barbaraj@gautrain.co.za.